Ashley Elizabeth Cagle , a radiant soul whose heart overflowed with love for her family and her faith, was born on May 1, 1989, and transitioned into the arms of Jesus on May 26, 2025. She was her mother's twin in more ways than just looks—sharing a bond so deep it was as if their hearts beat in tandem. Ashley had a rare, gentle way of making everyone she met feel seen, loved, and welcomed, always putting others before herself with grace and compassion.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Jon Collins officiating.  Interment will follow at Shelbyville Cemetery in Shelbyville.

From a young age, Ashley's light shone brightly. In her high school years, she was known not just for her smile, but for her spirit—cheering proudly on the sidelines as a cheerleader, rallying the teams and energizing the crowd. She also took to the field and track with determination and grace, playing softball and running track, showing her teammates what it meant to lead with heart. Her classmates remember her as someone who brought life to every hallway she walked down, and encouragement to every friend who needed it.

A best friend to her siblings, YaYa to her treasured nephews, and the most devoted, joy-filled mother to her beloved son Ryder, her life was a testament to the love she so freely gave. Ashley's voice, both in song and in spirit, carried beauty and warmth—whether she was lifting hearts in worship, humming her favorite country tune, or being called upon to share a special in churches she'd visited, always shining as the songbird she was.

She found peace by the water, joy in the laughter of her loved ones, and meaning in every soul she encountered. Even through life's hardest valleys, Ashley never lost sight of God's goodness—her faith unwavering, her hope steadfast, and her heart always anchored in her relationship with Jesus Christ. To know her was to be touched by His light, and her memory will continue to inspire those blessed to have shared in her journey.

She is survived by her son, Joshua "Ryder" Bearden of Shelbyville; father, J.C. Cagle of Shelbyville; sister, Jessica Merritt and husband Justin of Shelbyville; brothers, Clayton Cagle of Shelbyville and Jeffrey Cagle of Shelbyville; nephews, Jaxon, Jacob, and Jayson Merritt; a host of special friends and family.

Preceded in death by her son, Rhylee; mother, Susan Lois Bomba Cagle; grandparents, Jim and Lois Bomba and Clifton E. and Zera Cagle; aunt, Amy Bomba; and uncle, Ray Cagle and Mark Cagle.

Pallbearers will be Lance Jamison, Rece Porterfield, Caleb McDonald, Joshua McDonald, Blake Smith, and Chad Hughes.

In lieu of flowers and arrangements, Watson & Sons Funeral Home can accept monetary donations.